delamination repairs

[David Babcock]

I purchased a home built sailboat to restore. The major issue is what to do with the hole in the glass skin of the keel. Because of the hole, the lamination of the glass to the keel assembly has given way. The original glass was done with an epoxy resin. If I inject epoxy resin into the delaminated areas, then put boards and clamps to hold the materials together, when dry, will it be structurally sufficient? It isn't the entire keel just a couple decent size spots near the top of the keel and around the hole.Thanks for any assistance or advise you can provide.

 

[Aughie Byllott]

From the looks of your photo, it appears that the keel is fastened to the hull, most likely with bolts that furish the necessary structural strength. Look in the bilge to confirm this. The fiberglass coating on the lead keel most likely keeps the water off and provides a cosmetic finish.You may wish to drill a few small holes at the base of the keel to see if any water drips out. You may also wish to pour some denatured alcohol into the damaged area and let it run out through the holes you drilled. The alcohol should displace any water and then evaporate. Wait until you are sure that the inside is dry and then patch and seal the openings, including the holes you drilled, with epoxy, reinforced with glass cloth if, and where necessary to get a good surface.Refinish as necessary.

 

[Bruce Niederer]

I agree

I agree with Augie from NY. His response has covered the issue very well.

 

[Dave the owner]

maybe I wasn't clear

I have already made sure the keel is structurally sound, my question had more to do with reattaching the glass skin to the keel structure. Because of the hole and age, the skin has become unattached at a couple places along the keel and around the hole. After making sure everything is dry, can I inject epoxy resin/hardener into the cavities, and using boards against the skin, clamp it until the resin hardens. And would that relamination hold without catastrophic failure at sea. I would repair the hole of course.This has been an interesting project for a first time restorer, but I am progressing nicely. I contacted the builder, and he has sent me a number of photos. Some during the build, and some under sail. He is now 80 years old and when the restore is done I am taking him sailing.

 

[Bruce Niederer]

Replace the glass

I would recommend that you grind off the dellaminated glass to be sure it's dry underneath it and to visually inspect what's below it for additional damage that may be hidden. It's fairly easy to then laminate in a patch where you ground off any glass and you'll be sure everything's sound and well bonded.